Types Of Cataracts And Their Symptoms

Nov 24, 2015

Written by Fay

Cataract is easily one of the most common vision related problem, which especially affects the older generation, irrespective of the gender or race. However, it can be easily treated with the help of advanced laser surgeries. But the question bothers a lot of people, is that when is the right time to go for cataract surgery.

Cataract does not cause permanent vision loss. Therefore, in most cases it is up to the patient whether he/she feels the necessity to go for a cataract treatment or not. If you are not experiencing any major changes in your vision, then you can afford to delay the treatment because it is neither going to hurt or damage your eye. Some people do not get it removed while others go for it the moment they experience glares or similar problems, especially when it affects their profession.

Cataracts usually cause slow but progressive deterioration of vision, as web or cloud like structures begin to engulf their vision. While in some cases the progression may be slow, there are others in which it might intensify at a rapid pace. Glares from headlights, trouble with bright light, halos around sources of light and problem in carrying out routine activities are some of the warning signs of this disease.

Cataracts can be divided into three different categories. Each of these categories has their own set of symptoms and speed of progression, with periods ranging from 6 months to almost 20 years. Let’s take a look at the types of cataract:

Nuclear Sclerotic: In this condition, the patient experiences a steady deterioration of vision. If you are facing difficulties seeing finer details, experiencing reduced color perception or finding it difficult to drive during night time due to glares of headlights, then you might be suffering from this type of cataract.

Cortical Cataracts: While this condition is similar to nuclear sclerotic as far as speed of progression is concerned, but the person affected by this condition usually has more problems with glares and haziness.

Posterior Subcapsular: This type of cataract is the quickest in terms of progression and can even affect younger people and diabetics. Glares, trouble with bright light and recognition of faces are some of the common symptoms of this disease.

If you are unsure of how to deal with the aforementioned vision problems, simply speak to a specialist on eye care, call Perfect Vision on 13 13 40, or head online to make an enquiry or book an appointment.